Chapter 7 Summary

Muthu, the teashop owner from Mempi, visits Nataraj at his press. Nataraj attempts to pay his tea debt, but Muthu is insulted, stating that he has come on more important business. The business is in regards to Kumar, the temple elephant, who has become sick and is no longer walking or eating. Muthu says that he has heard of a government animal hospital and that he would like Nataraj to procure the assistance of a veterinarian. Nataraj has not heard of this hospital, but he promises to investigate.

The following day, Nataraj visits Sen, the journalist, at his house. Sen, who is startled by the visit, is anxious about playing the role of host rather than guest. Nataraj states the purpose of his visit, to determine the truth about the animal hospital. Sen recalls an article and presents it to Nataraj.

Nataraj visits...